The Gold Coast SUNS have joined forces with Major Charity Partner RizeUp to officially launch their 2020 Christmas Appeal.
Over the past two weeks SUNS Staff and Players have generously donated over 100 gifts to be distributed to children and families impacted by family and domestic violence this Christmas as part of the appeal.
As part of the announcement, club partner Harbour Town Premium Outlets also very kindly donated a $5000 shopping voucher for SUNS AFLW players Jordann Hickey, Serene Watson and Kalinda Howarth to purchase gifts for the appeal from one of the 200+ stores available.
Gold Coast SUNS Chief Executive Mark Evans said the club was proud to be involved in the 2020 appeal which was now in its sixth year.
“We’re delighted to be supporting the 2020 appeal and I want to encourage all SUNS members and fans to join our players and staff and support those in need,” Evans said.
“2020 has been a tough year for everyone and it’s important we do our part to help as many children as possible end the year on a bright note, with a smile on their face.
“We’re proud to support RizeUp Australia and the work they do in helping people restart their lives as they move away from a violent situation.”
SUNS players and staff will also donate their time to help support the new RizeUp Gift wrapping station at Harbour Town Premium Outlets from now until 24th December for a gold coin donation.
RizeUp Australia CEO Nicolle Edwards said the domestic violence charity wanted to collect 15,000 new toys and distribute them to children across the nation in the remaining weeks before Christmas.
“It was difficult keeping up with demand before COVID-19 restrictions were enforced earlier this year, but during 2020 we’ve seen calls for help increase by 26 per cent," Ms Edwards said.
“Sadly, thousands of children across the nation will miss out on a Christmas present – because their families simply can’t afford to buy them anything.
“So, with Christmas just around the corner, we’re celebrating the season of giving by joining forces with our generous partners to launch our 2020 Christmas Gift Appeal.
“Last year, we collected more than 10,000 gifts for families in refuge and we want to make the 2020 Appeal even more successful.”
Since it was founded in 2015, RizeUp Australia has now helped more than 1000 families – most already linked to crisis services in Queensland and New South Wales - press the “restart button on a life free from violence”.
RizeUp Australia recently launched the #change5000 Campaign to secure the support of 5000 Australians to each donate $2 a week.
For more information about RizeUp and the #change5000 campaign, visit: https://www.rizeup.com.au/
If you or anyone you know needs help, call the national helpline 1800RESPECT or contact your local domestic violence centre.
